Supported efforts to reform criminal justice policy and the different treatment on the federal and state level of individuals incarcerated for cannabis offenses including, the HOPE Act (H.R. 6129), the MORE Act (H.R. 3617) and the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (S4591). CCIA has also supported comprehensive cannabis reform efforts as they develop in the Senate and the White House in conjunction with the Administration's announcement around cannabis pardons and a scheduling review.
CCIA supports the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1996). Cannabis businesses do not enjoy access to the same banking services enjoyed by every other legally operating business in the United States. The SAFE Banking Act would create a safe harbor for banks to service cannabis industry clients thus enabling cannabis businesses access to checking accounts, lines of credit and other standard business banking services. CCIA's support of SAFE Banking included its provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and America COMPETES bill, and other legislative vehicles including the end of year omnibus.
CCIA also was active on the CLIMB Act HR. 8200, a bill that provides safe harbors for financial institutions, government programs, and capital markets.
As the federal government considers how to reconcile state legal cannabis programs with cannabis' federal illegality, CCIA supports legislation and regulatory paradigms that decriminalize cannabis, remediate the harm of the failed War on Drugs, ensure the highest standards of consumer safety, respect existing cannabis supply chains and provide equitable financial treatment for cannabis businesses. HR 1996, HR 3884 and HR 3105 are the three primary pieces of legislation which CCIA has supported to achieve these goals. Additionally, CCIA supported the SHIP Act HR 8825.
To note, CCIA submitted comments to the discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) introduced by Senators Schumer, Booker and Wyden last year. CCIA supports the Senators' comprehensive approach to reform and looks forward to working with legislators on another version of the bill when it is formally introduced.
Additionally, CCIA noted the introduction of HR 5977 by Congresswoman Mace and the Hope Act by Reps. Ocasio-Cortez and Joyce during the fourth quarter of 2021 and looks forward to working with these congressional offices to advance areas of critical reform this year.
CCIA also supported the PREPARE Act (H.R. 7513).
Finally, CCIA supports the Cannabidiol and Marijuana Research Expansion Act (S.253) and the Medical Marijuana Research Act (HR 5657).
CCIA supports the expansion of protections for the cannabis industry through the appropriations process, namely the expansion of medical protections to include adult use, increased veterans access, as well as the inclusion of SAFE Banking language in an appropriations amendment. CCIA also supports the removal of the Harris Rider which prevents the District of Columbia from legalizing commercial cannabis sales. CCIA also supports an appropriations provision that prevents the FCC from preventing broadcasters from advertising cannabis companies.
Duration: October 17, 2018
to
January 2, 2023
General Issues: Law Enforcement/Crime/Criminal Justice , Banking , Government Issues , Budget/Appropriations , Consumer Issues/Safety/Protection , Taxation/Internal Revenue Code , Financial Institutions/Investments/Securities , Medical/Disease Research/Clinical Labs
Spending: about $229,000 (But it's complicated. Here's why.)
It can be tricky to figure out how much an organization spent on a particular lobbying engagement. The law only requires lobbyists to report the amount they were paid for federal lobbying each quarter rounded to the nearest $10,000—and if it's less than $3,000 in a given quarter (or less than $13,000 for organizations with in-house lobbyists), they don't have to disclose it at all. Plus, some organizations include spending that doesn’t belong in the report—for instance, money spent lobbying state governments or other legal work.
Agencies lobbied since 2018: U.S. Senate, House of Representatives, White House Office
Lobbyists
Lobbyists named here were listed on a filing related to this lobbying engagement. They may not be working on it now. Occasionally, a single lobbyist whose name is spelled two different ways on filings may be represented twice here.
Disclosures Filed
Once a lobbying engagement begins, the lobbyist or firm is required to file updates four times a year. Those updates sometimes change which lobbyists are involved or add new issues being discussed. When lobbyists stop working for a client, the firm is also supposed to file a report disclosing the end of the relationship.
1st Quarter, 2023
The Liaison Group, LLC terminated an engagement in which they represented California Cannabis Industry Association on April 17, 2023.
Original Filing: 301453441.xml
4th Quarter, 2022
In Q4, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $8,000. The report was filed on Jan. 19, 2023.
Original Filing: 301434959.xml
Lobbying Issues
Supported efforts to reform criminal justice policy and the different treatment on the federal and state level of individuals incarcerated for cannabis offenses including, the HOPE Act (H.R. 6129), the MORE Act (H.R. 3617) and the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (S4591). CCIA has also supported comprehensive cannabis reform efforts as they develop in the Senate and the White House in conjunction with the Administration's announcement around cannabis pardons and a scheduling review.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Type of Issue
Law Enforcement/Crime/Criminal Justice
Lobbying Issues
CCIA supports the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1996). Cannabis businesses do not enjoy access to the same banking services enjoyed by every other legally operating business in the United States. The SAFE Banking Act would create a safe harbor for banks to service cannabis industry clients thus enabling cannabis businesses access to checking accounts, lines of credit and other standard business banking services. CCIA's support of SAFE Banking included its provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and America COMPETES bill, and other legislative vehicles including the end of year omnibus.
CCIA also was active on the CLIMB Act HR. 8200, a bill that provides safe harbors for financial institutions, government programs, and capital markets.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Lobbying Issues
As the federal government considers how to reconcile state legal cannabis programs with cannabis' federal illegality, CCIA supports legislation and regulatory paradigms that decriminalize cannabis, remediate the harm of the failed War on Drugs, ensure the highest standards of consumer safety, respect existing cannabis supply chains and provide equitable financial treatment for cannabis businesses. HR 1996, HR 3884 and HR 3105 are the three primary pieces of legislation which CCIA has supported to achieve these goals. Additionally, CCIA supported the SHIP Act HR 8825.
To note, CCIA submitted comments to the discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) introduced by Senators Schumer, Booker and Wyden last year. CCIA supports the Senators' comprehensive approach to reform and looks forward to working with legislators on another version of the bill when it is formally introduced.
Additionally, CCIA noted the introduction of HR 5977 by Congresswoman Mace and the Hope Act by Reps. Ocasio-Cortez and Joyce during the fourth quarter of 2021 and looks forward to working with these congressional offices to advance areas of critical reform this year.
CCIA also supported the PREPARE Act (H.R. 7513).
Finally, CCIA supports the Cannabidiol and Marijuana Research Expansion Act (S.253) and the Medical Marijuana Research Act (HR 5657).
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Lobbying Issues
CCIA supports the expansion of protections for the cannabis industry through the appropriations process, namely the expansion of medical protections to include adult use, increased veterans access, as well as the inclusion of SAFE Banking language in an appropriations amendment. CCIA also supports the removal of the Harris Rider which prevents the District of Columbia from legalizing commercial cannabis sales. CCIA also supports an appropriations provision that prevents the FCC from preventing broadcasters from advertising cannabis companies.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
3rd Quarter, 2022
In Q3, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $8,000. The report was filed on Oct. 17, 2022.
Original Filing: 301405711.xml
Lobbying Issues
Supported efforts to reform criminal justice policy and the different treatment on the federal and state level of individuals incarcerated for cannabis offenses including, the HOPE Act (H.R. 6129), the MORE Act (H.R. 3617) and the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (S4591). CCIA has also supported comprehensive cannabis reform efforts as they develop in the Senate.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Type of Issue
Law Enforcement/Crime/Criminal Justice
Lobbying Issues
CCIA supports the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1996). Cannabis businesses do not enjoy access to the same banking services enjoyed by every other legally operating business in the United States. The SAFE Banking Act would create a safe harbor for banks to service cannabis industry clients thus enabling cannabis businesses access to checking accounts, lines of credit and other standard business banking services. CCIA's support of SAFE Banking included its provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and America COMPETES bill, and other legislative vehicles.
CCIA also was active on the CLIMB Act HR. 8200, a bill that provides safe harbors for financial institutions, government programs, and capital markets.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Lobbying Issues
As the federal government considers how to reconcile state legal cannabis programs with cannabis' federal illegality, CCIA supports legislation and regulatory paradigms that decriminalize cannabis, remediate the harm of the failed War on Drugs, ensure the highest standards of consumer safety, respect existing cannabis supply chains and provide equitable financial treatment for cannabis businesses. HR 1996, HR 3884 and HR 3105 are the three primary pieces of legislation which CCIA has supported to achieve these goals. Additionally, CCIA supported the SHIP Act HR 8825.
To note, CCIA submitted comments to the discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) introduced by Senators Schumer, Booker and Wyden last year. CCIA supports the Senators' comprehensive approach to reform and looks forward to working with legislators on another version of the bill when it is formally introduced.
Additionally, CCIA noted the introduction of HR 5977 by Congresswoman Mace and the Hope Act by Reps. Ocasio-Cortez and Joyce during the fourth quarter of 2021 and looks forward to working with these congressional offices to advance areas of critical reform this year.
CCIA also supported the PREPARE Act (H.R. 7513).
Finally, CCIA supports the Cannabidiol and Marijuana Research Expansion Act (S.253) and the Medical Marijuana Research Act (HR 5657).
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Lobbying Issues
CCIA supports the expansion of protections for the cannabis industry through the appropriations process, namely the expansion of medical protections to include adult use, increased veterans access, as well as the inclusion of SAFE Banking language in an appropriations amendment. CCIA also supports the removal of the Harris Rider which prevents the District of Columbia from legalizing commercial cannabis sales. CCIA also supports an appropriations provision that prevents the FCC from preventing broadcasters from advertising cannabis companies.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
2nd Quarter, 2022
In Q2, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $8,000. The report was filed on July 19, 2022.
Original Filing: 301386838.xml
Lobbying Issues
Supported efforts to reform criminal justice policy and the different treatment on the federal and state level of individuals incarcerated for cannabis offenses including the States Reform Act (H.R. 5977), the HOPE Act (H.R. 6129), the MORE Act (H.R. 3617). CCIA has also supported comprehensive cannabis reform efforts as they develop in the Senate.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Type of Issue
Law Enforcement/Crime/Criminal Justice
Lobbying Issues
CCIA supports the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1996). Cannabis businesses do not enjoy access to the same banking services enjoyed by every other legally operating business in the United States. The SAFE Banking Act would create a safe harbor for banks to service cannabis industry clients thus enabling cannabis businesses access to checking accounts, lines of credit and other standard business banking services. CCIA's support of SAFE Banking included its provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and America COMPETES bill.
CCIA also was active on the CLIMB Act HR. 8200, a bill that provides safe harbors for financial institutions, government programs, and capital markets.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Lobbying Issues
As the federal government considers how to reconcile state legal cannabis programs with cannabis' federal illegality, CCIA supports legislation and regulatory paradigms that decriminalize cannabis, remediate the harm of the failed War on Drugs, ensure the highest standards of consumer safety, respect existing cannabis supply chains and provide equitable financial treatment for cannabis businesses. HR 1996, HR 3884 and HR 3105 are the three primary pieces of legislation which CCIA has supported to achieve these goals.
To note, CCIA submitted comments to the discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) introduced by Senators Schumer, Booker and Wyden last year. CCIA supports the Senators' comprehensive approach to reform and looks forward to working with legislators on another version of the bill when it is formally introduced.
Additionally, CCIA noted the introduction of HR 5977 by Congresswoman Mace and the Hope Act by Reps. Ocasio-Cortez and Joyce during the fourth quarter of 2021 and looks forward to working with these congressional offices to advance areas of critical reform this year.
CCIA also supported the PREPARE Act (H.R. 7513).
Finally, CCIA supports the Cannabidiol and Marijuana Research Expansion Act (S.253) and the Medical Marijuana Research Act (HR 5657).
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Lobbying Issues
CCIA supports the expansion of protections for the cannabis industry through the appropriations process, namely the expansion of medical protections to include adult use, increased veterans access, as well as the inclusion of SAFE Banking language in an appropriations amendment. CCIA also supports the removal of the Harris Rider which prevents the District of Columbia from legalizing commercial cannabis sales. CCIA also supports an appropriations provision that prevents the FCC from preventing broadcasters from advertising cannabis companies.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
1st Quarter, 2022
In Q1, The Liaison Group, LLC did no lobbying for California Cannabis Industry Association . The report was filed on April 14, 2022.
Original Filing: 301355876.xml
4th Quarter, 2021
The Liaison Group, LLC amended a lobbying report for representation of California Cannabis Industry Association in Q42021 on Jan. 20, 2022.
Original Filing: 301335660.xml
Lobbying Issues
Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1996): The California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) supports the SAFE Banking Act which would create a safe harbor for depository institutions to work with state-legal cannabis businesses. CCIA is particularly concerned about the lack of access to banking services for social equity operators in the cannabis space. Without lines of credit, basic checking accounts and other services, social equity operators do not have the tools and resources necessary to succeed in the industry.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
The California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) supports HR 1996 (the SAFE Banking Act), but also HR 3884 (the MORE Act) and HR 3105 (Commonsense Cannabis Reform for Veterans, Small Businesses, and Medical Professionals Act) - all pieces of legislation that address the disconnect between federal and state laws with regard to cannabis. In addition to access to banking services, CCIA supports the remediation of the harms caused by the War on Drugs, especially on BIPOC communities; equal tax treatment for cannabis businesses; expansion of veterans' access: maintaining the highest consumer safety standards; and respecting the robust state cannabis programs which have developed in California and states across the country.
CCIA was also active in providing feedback to the discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) which was released by Senators Schumer, Booker and Wyden in July 2021. We look forward to working with the Senators as they refine the draft and formally introduce it later this Congress.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
4th Quarter, 2021
In Q4, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $14,000. The report was filed on Jan. 11, 2022.
Original Filing: 301321194.xml
Lobbying Issues
Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1996): The California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) supports the SAFE Banking Act which would create a safe harbor for depository institutions to work with state-legal cannabis businesses. CCIA is particularly concerned about the lack of access to banking services for social equity operators in the cannabis space. Without lines of credit, basic checking accounts and other services, social equity operators do not have the tools and resources necessary to succeed in the industry.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
The California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) supports HR 1996 (the SAFE Banking Act), but also HR 3884 (the MORE Act) and HR 3105 (Commonsense Cannabis Reform for Veterans, Small Businesses, and Medical Professionals Act) - all pieces of legislation that address the disconnect between federal and state laws with regard to cannabis. In addition to access to banking services, CCIA supports the remediation of the harms caused by the War on Drugs, especially on BIPOC communities; equal tax treatment for cannabis businesses; expansion of veterans' access: maintaining the highest consumer safety standards; and respecting the robust state cannabis programs which have developed in California and states across the country.
CCIA was also active in providing feedback to the discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) which was released by Senators Schumer, Booker and Wyden in July 2021. We look forward to working with the Senators as they refine the draft and formally introduce it later this Congress.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
3rd Quarter, 2021
In Q3, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $17,000. The report was filed on Oct. 19, 2021.
Original Filing: 301303659.xml
Lobbying Issues
Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1996): The California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) supports the SAFE Banking Act which would create a safe harbor for depository institutions to work with state-legal cannabis businesses. CCIA is particularly concerned about the lack of access to banking services for social equity operators in the cannabis space. Without lines of credit, basic checking accounts and other services, social equity operators do not have the tools and resources necessary to succeed in the industry.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
The California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) supports HR 1996 (the SAFE Banking Act), but also HR 3884 (the MORE Act) and HR 3105 (Commonsense Cannabis Reform for Veterans, Small Businesses, and Medical Professionals Act) - all pieces of legislation that address the disconnect between federal and state laws with regard to cannabis. In addition to access to banking services, CCIA supports the remediation of the harms caused by the War on Drugs, especially on BIPOC communities; equal tax treatment for cannabis businesses; expansion of veterans' access: maintaining the highest consumer safety standards; and respecting the robust state cannabis programs which have developed in California and states across the country.
CCIA was also active in providing feedback to the discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) which was released by Senators Schumer, Booker and Wyden in July 2021. We look forward to working with the Senators as they refine the draft and formally introduce it later this Congress.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
2nd Quarter, 2021
In Q2, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $17,000. The report was filed on July 12, 2021.
Original Filing: 301275169.xml
Lobbying Issues
Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1996): The California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) supports the SAFE Banking Act which would create a safe harbor for depository institutions to work with state-legal cannabis businesses. CCIA is particularly concerned about the lack of access to banking services for social equity operators in the cannabis space. Without lines of credit, basic checking accounts and other services, social equity operators do not have the tools and resources necessary to succeed in the industry.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
The California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) supports HR 1996 (the SAFE Banking Act), but also HR 3884 (the MORE Act) and HR 3105 (Commonsense Cannabis Reform for Veterans, Small Businesses, and Medical Professionals Act) - all pieces of legislation that address the disconnect between federal and state laws with regard to cannabis. In addition to access to banking services, CCIA supports the remediation of the harms caused by the War on Drugs, especially on BIPOC communities; equal tax treatment for cannabis businesses; expansion of veterans' access: maintaining the highest consumer safety standards; and respecting the robust state cannabis programs which have developed in California and states across the country.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
1st Quarter, 2021
In Q1, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $6,000. The report was filed on April 16, 2021.
Original Filing: 301254383.xml
Lobbying Issues
Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1996): The California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) supports the SAFE Banking Act which would create a safe harbor for depository institutions to work with state-legal cannabis businesses.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
CCIA also supports the expansion of protections for the cannabis industry through the appropriations process, namely the expansion of medical protections to include adult use, increased veterans access, as well as the inclusion of SAFE Banking language in an appropriations amendment.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
4th Quarter, 2020
In Q4, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $17,000. The report was filed on Jan. 18, 2021.
Original Filing: 301233130.xml
Lobbying Issues
For the safety of our employees and our communities, CCIA has worked to ensure the SAFE Banking Act remains part of COVID relief and becomes law.
The SAFE Banking passed out of the House on two occasions. The first was standalone bill H.R. 1595 and the second as part of the Heroes Act (H.R. 6800), however this bill is yet to be passed by the Senate and signed into law.
CCIA wants to make sure that this important piece of legislation is part of a final, negotiated COVID package. We need SAFE Banking to ensure that BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) owned businesses, especially those owned by women, have equitable access to funding. Most notably, BIPOC owners who have been most adversely impacted by the pandemic compared to their white counterparts. Below are just some reasons among many that stress the importance of this relief.
Los Angeles social equity program, one of the few in the state, was designed to promote equitable ownership in the cannabis industry, but this program has had considerable challenges due to an imbalance of wealth. Although it was intended that Social Equity applicants have the opportunity to be first to market, a group of said applicants were forced to file a lawsuit to achieve fairness in a flawed process, which has now been settled. This is just the first step in an attempt to achieve equity. The majority of Social Equity applicants have not been able to afford the delayed process, nor the start-up costs associated with launching a cannabis business.
BIPOC operators lack access to the capital that is essential to start cannabis businesses, so establishing loan programs would help with this burden. However, even if the SBA were to set up a loan program, this could not be effectuated without access to banks.
Unfortunately, in the states that have equity programs written into their cannabis statutes, BIPOC owners fall prey to predatory business arrangements in which larger cannabis companies will be effectively running the businesses through a management services agreement while the BIPOC owner becomes a figurehead.
Women and BIPOC face significant barriers to accessing investment dollars. Every year women of color get less than 1% of total venture capital funding. Further, data from 2019 indicates that only 200 Latinx and Black individuals nationwide were able to raise over $1 million in venture capital. This number is for all industries, not just cannabis.
The bill is unquestionably part of a holistic approach to ending the War on Drugs, and its devastating effects on communities of color. The longer that BIPOC entrepreneurs have to wait to enter this industry, the greater disadvantage they are at because of larger companies ability to build their brands and customer loyalty.
SAFE Banking reduces cash motivated crimes. Cannabis businesses and employees are routinely targeted, robbed and sometimes attacked because of the large amounts of cash that they are forced to deal with.
Lastly, SAFE Banking as included in the Heroes Act (H.R 6800) calls for two diversity studies for the cannabis industry. While these studies will largely tell us what we currently know (that non-white representation in the industry is disproportionately low), this will create an important baseline for future conversations around legalization and ensuring the industry is equitable.
We cannot hope to repair our communities through reinvestment without the appropriate tools, including SAFE Banking. The events of recent months have shown us that this bill is more important than ever. We urge its swift passage to help our economy and our communities.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
The Marijuana Opportunity and Reinvestment Act (MORE Act, H.R. 3884).
Since the passage of the Controlled Substances Act 50 years ago, Congress has never addressed the scheduling of cannabis. For far too long, cannabis has been inappropriately classified creating criminal penalties for consumers and businesses alike.
The MORE Act, among other areas, would remove cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, federally decriminalizing the substance. Under the MORE Act, California would still be able to make decisions about its cannabis marketplace, but our businesses would no longer be subject to federal barriers like access to banking or tax payments under 280E. More importantly, cannabis offenses would no longer exist at the federal level, opening the door for countless individuals to expunge and clear their criminal records. The MORE Act also establishes an equity grant fund for state level efforts to end the War on Drugs.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
3rd Quarter, 2020
In Q3, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $12,000. The report was filed on Oct. 19, 2020.
Original Filing: 301213928.xml
Lobbying Issues
For the safety of our employees and our communities, CCIA has worked to ensure the SAFE Banking Act remains part of COVID relief and becomes law.
The SAFE Banking passed out of the House on two occasions. The first was standalone bill H.R. 1595 and the second as part of the Heroes Act (H.R. 6800), however this bill is yet to be passed by the Senate and signed into law.
CCIA wants to make sure that this important piece of legislation is part of a final, negotiated COVID package. We need SAFE Banking to ensure that BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) owned businesses, especially those owned by women, have equitable access to funding. Most notably, BIPOC owners who have been most adversely impacted by the pandemic compared to their white counterparts. Below are just some reasons among many that stress the importance of this relief.
Los Angeles social equity program, one of the few in the state, was designed to promote equitable ownership in the cannabis industry, but this program has had considerable challenges due to an imbalance of wealth. Although it was intended that Social Equity applicants have the opportunity to be first to market, a group of said applicants were forced to file a lawsuit to achieve fairness in a flawed process, which has now been settled. This is just the first step in an attempt to achieve equity. The majority of Social Equity applicants have not been able to afford the delayed process, nor the start-up costs associated with launching a cannabis business.
BIPOC operators lack access to the capital that is essential to start cannabis businesses, so establishing loan programs would help with this burden. However, even if the SBA were to set up a loan program, this could not be effectuated without access to banks.
Unfortunately, in the states that have equity programs written into their cannabis statutes, BIPOC owners fall prey to predatory business arrangements in which larger cannabis companies will be effectively running the businesses through a management services agreement while the BIPOC owner becomes a figurehead.
Women and BIPOC face significant barriers to accessing investment dollars. Every year women of color get less than 1% of total venture capital funding. Further, data from 2019 indicates that only 200 Latinx and Black individuals nationwide were able to raise over $1 million in venture capital. This number is for all industries, not just cannabis.
The bill is unquestionably part of a holistic approach to ending the War on Drugs, and its devastating effects on communities of color. The longer that BIPOC entrepreneurs have to wait to enter this industry, the greater disadvantage they are at because of larger companies ability to build their brands and customer loyalty.
SAFE Banking reduces cash motivated crimes. Cannabis businesses and employees are routinely targeted, robbed and sometimes attacked because of the large amounts of cash that they are forced to deal with.
Lastly, SAFE Banking as included in the Heroes Act (H.R 6800) calls for two diversity studies for the cannabis industry. While these studies will largely tell us what we currently know (that non-white representation in the industry is disproportionately low), this will create an important baseline for future conversations around legalization and ensuring the industry is equitable.
We cannot hope to repair our communities through reinvestment without the appropriate tools, including SAFE Banking. The events of recent months have shown us that this bill is more important than ever. We urge its swift passage to help our economy and our communities.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
The Marijuana Opportunity and Reinvestment Act (MORE Act, H.R. 3884).
Since the passage of the Controlled Substances Act 50 years ago, Congress has never addressed the scheduling of cannabis. For far too long, cannabis has been inappropriately classified creating criminal penalties for consumers and businesses alike.
The MORE Act, among other areas, would remove cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, federally decriminalizing the substance. Under the MORE Act, California would still be able to make decisions about its cannabis marketplace, but our businesses would no longer be subject to federal barriers like access to banking or tax payments under 280E. More importantly, cannabis offenses would no longer exist at the federal level, opening the door for countless individuals to expunge and clear their criminal records. The MORE Act also establishes an equity grant fund for state level efforts to end the War on Drugs.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
2nd Quarter, 2020
In Q2, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $18,000. The report was filed on July 22, 2020.
Original Filing: 301203439.xml
Lobbying Issues
CCIA encourages Congress to pass the SAFE Banking Act which has passed out of the House on two occasions - the first as standalone bill (H.R. 1595) and the second as part of the Heroes Act (H.R. 6800).
While the challenges of COVID-19 amplified the need for access to financial services by cannabis businesses, recent targeting of cannabis businesses by criminals taking advantage of civil protests has made that need even more acute.
Criminals know that cannabis businesses are easy targets because they do not have bank accounts and, therefore, have significant amounts of cash on hand. And while an act of vandalism is distressing to any business, cannabis businesses are faced with unique challenges due to their lack of access to traditional financial services. Among other considerations, obtaining property & casualty insurance for damage and loss is extremely difficult for cannabis businesses due to the lack of financial services. Additionally, while other businesses can pay their taxes electronically, and may have commercial insurance coverage to help recover losses for vandalism, state legal cannabis businesses are subject to hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars in unrecoverable losses.
The SAFE Banking Act would provide the same banking services for state-legal cannabis businesses which are enjoyed by every other legally operating business in the United States. CCIA strongly endorses the bill's passage as a matter of critical urgency for the California businesses it represents.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
Limited protections from federal interference - via spending restrictions prohibiting DOJ interference with legal, state-based programs - for both medical and adult use programs. Increased access to medical cannabis for veterans.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
1st Quarter, 2020
In Q1, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $14,000. The report was filed on April 17, 2020.
Original Filing: 301170258.xml
Lobbying Issues
HR 1595: SAFE Banking Act
The ability to use US financial institutions for banking is essential to ensure the safety of the cannabis industry and cannabis consumers. Without access to banking, companies are forced to maintain large amounts of cash on hand, pay employees and vendors in cash, and use cash to pay taxes. All of this creates an untenable situation where the safety of consumers, employees and companies is at risk.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
Limited protections from federal interference - via spending restrictions prohibiting DOJ interference with legal, state-based programs - for both medical and adult use programs. Increased access to medical cannabis for veterans.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
As Californias collective voice for the cannabis industry, the California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) stands ready to do its part to end the epidemic of illnesses and deaths attributed to e-cigarettes and vaping products.
Ongoing federal prohibition drives cannabis consumers to illicit and more dangerous sources than Californias regulated cannabis market. A critical concept to highlight is that any cannabis sold on the illicit market undergoes no testing. Additionally, there are no recall procedures that exist for cannabis and cannabis products sold on the illicit market. When authority is vested in a state control board like the Bureau of Cannabis Control, consumers are well protected as the state can issue recalls on tainted products. We hope that Congressional action on this issue will follow the lead of California by creating strong product safety protocols that improve public health.
Our member businesses work diligently to ensure that Californians know the difference between regulated and illicit cannabis. Our members rigorously test their cannabis products for residuals, toxins, solvents, pesticides and heavy metals. This testing is not reactive to recent news, but rather is something that has been in place since our associations founding. CCIA members are held to the highest level of accountability when it comes to complying with state level regulatory standards.
As Congress looks towards acting on this ongoing crisis, we ask that policy is driven by fact-based data rather than fear. Well-structured Congressional and executive oversight on e-cigarettes and vaping products will lead to increased consumer safety. Educated and informed decisions must guide next steps and CCIA stands ready to serve as the leading educational resource on this issue. We look forward to working with you to develop safe and smart regulations that protect consumers in our state and around the country.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Type of Issue
Consumer Issues/Safety/Protection
4th Quarter, 2019
In Q4, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $14,000. The report was filed on Jan. 27, 2020.
Original Filing: 301130471.xml
Lobbying Issues
HR 1595: SAFE Banking Act
The ability to use US financial institutions for banking is essential to ensure the safety of the cannabis industry and cannabis consumers. Without access to banking, companies are forced to maintain large amounts of cash on hand, pay employees and vendors in cash, and use cash to pay taxes. All of this creates an untenable situation where the safety of consumers, employees and companies is at risk.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
Limited protections from federal interference - via spending restrictions prohibiting DOJ interference with legal, state-based programs - for both medical and adult use programs.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
4th Quarter, 2019
The Liaison Group, LLC amended a lobbying report for representation of California Cannabis Industry Association in Q42019 on Jan. 27, 2020.
Original Filing: 301130483.xml
Lobbying Issues
HR 1595: SAFE Banking Act
The ability to use US financial institutions for banking is essential to ensure the safety of the cannabis industry and cannabis consumers. Without access to banking, companies are forced to maintain large amounts of cash on hand, pay employees and vendors in cash, and use cash to pay taxes. All of this creates an untenable situation where the safety of consumers, employees and companies is at risk.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
Limited protections from federal interference - via spending restrictions prohibiting DOJ interference with legal, state-based programs - for both medical and adult use programs.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
As Californias collective voice for the cannabis industry, the California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) stands ready to do its part to end the epidemic of illnesses and deaths attributed to e-cigarettes and vaping products.
Ongoing federal prohibition drives cannabis consumers to illicit and more dangerous sources than Californias regulated cannabis market. A critical concept to highlight is that any cannabis sold on the illicit market undergoes no testing. Additionally, there are no recall procedures that exist for cannabis and cannabis products sold on the illicit market. When authority is vested in a state control board like the Bureau of Cannabis Control, consumers are well protected as the state can issue recalls on tainted products. We hope that Congressional action on this issue will follow the lead of California by creating strong product safety protocols that improve public health.
Our member businesses work diligently to ensure that Californians know the difference between regulated and illicit cannabis. Our members rigorously test their cannabis products for residuals, toxins, solvents, pesticides and heavy metals. This testing is not reactive to recent news, but rather is something that has been in place since our associations founding. CCIA members are held to the highest level of accountability when it comes to complying with state level regulatory standards.
As Congress looks towards acting on this ongoing crisis, we ask that policy is driven by fact-based data rather than fear. Well-structured Congressional and executive oversight on e-cigarettes and vaping products will lead to increased consumer safety. Educated and informed decisions must guide next steps and CCIA stands ready to serve as the leading educational resource on this issue. We look forward to working with you to develop safe and smart regulations that protect consumers in our state and around the country.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Type of Issue
Consumer Issues/Safety/Protection
3rd Quarter, 2019
In Q3, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $24,000. The report was filed on Oct. 14, 2019.
Original Filing: 301065233.xml
Lobbying Issues
HR 1595: SAFE Banking Act
The ability to use US financial institutions for banking is essential to ensure the safety of the cannabis industry and cannabis consumers. Without access to banking, companies are forced to maintain large amounts of cash on hand, pay employees and vendors in cash, and use cash to pay taxes. All of this creates an untenable situation where the safety of consumers, employees and companies is at risk.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
Limited protections from federal interference - via spending restrictions prohibiting DOJ interference with legal, state-based programs - for both medical and adult use programs.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
2nd Quarter, 2019
In Q2, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $20,000. The report was filed on Aug. 13, 2019.
Original Filing: 301060924.xml
Lobbying Issues
HR 1595: SAFE Banking Act
The ability to use US financial institutions for banking is essential to ensure the safety of the cannabis industry and cannabis consumers. Without access to banking, companies are forced to maintain large amounts of cash on hand, pay employees and vendors in cash, and use cash to pay taxes. All of this creates an untenable situation where the safety of consumers, employees and companies is at risk.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
HR 2093: STATES Act
Lawfully licensed cannabis businesses face unfair obstacles and disparate treatment to other businesses within the state of California. Repealing the tax penalty that singles out legal cannabis businesses would begin to address this inequality by ensuring that these businesses have the ability to claim deductions and tax credits like any other business.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Type of Issue
Taxation/Internal Revenue Code
Lobbying Issues
HR 1595: SAFE Banking Act
California and other states with legal cannabis markets face a serious banking crisis. Licensed cannabis businesses have limited to no access to banking services, such as basic depository and checking accounts, resulting in businesses operating entirely in cash, which threatens the safety and financial security of law-abiding citizens. Ensuring access to banking services will enable the auditing and monitoring of these lawful businesses and allow investigatory and regulatory authorities to effectively focus their limited resources to investigate money laundering for legitimate criminal activity.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Type of Issue
Financial Institutions/Investments/Securities
Lobbying Issues
Limited protections from federal interference - via spending restrictions prohibiting DOJ interference with legal, state-based programs - for both medical and adult use programs.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
1st Quarter, 2019
In Q1, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $12,000. The report was filed on April 17, 2019.
Original Filing: 301026930.xml
Lobbying Issues
HR 1595: SAFE Banking Act
The ability to use US financial institutions for banking is essential to ensure the safety of the cannabis industry and cannabis consumers. Without access to banking, companies are forced to maintain large amounts of cash on hand, pay employees and vendors in cash, and use cash to pay taxes. All of this creates an untenable situation where the safety of consumers, employees and companies is at risk.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Lobbying Issues
HR 2093: STATES Act
Lawfully licensed cannabis businesses face unfair obstacles and disparate treatment to other businesses within the state of California. Repealing the tax penalty that singles out legal cannabis businesses would begin to address this inequality by ensuring that these businesses have the ability to claim deductions and tax credits like any other business.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Type of Issue
Taxation/Internal Revenue Code
Lobbying Issues
HR 1595: SAFE Banking Act
California and other states with legal cannabis markets face a serious banking crisis. Licensed cannabis businesses have limited to no access to banking services, such as basic depository and checking accounts, resulting in businesses operating entirely in cash, which threatens the safety and financial security of law-abiding citizens. Ensuring access to banking services will enable the auditing and monitoring of these lawful businesses and allow investigatory and regulatory authorities to effectively focus their limited resources to investigate money laundering for legitimate criminal activity.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
Type of Issue
Financial Institutions/Investments/Securities
Lobbying Issues
Limited protections from federal interference for a states cannabis program exist via spending restrictions prohibiting DOJs interference with the states implementation of its medical cannabis programs.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. House of Representatives
4th Quarter, 2018
The Liaison Group, LLC amended a lobbying report for representation of California Cannabis Industry Association in Q42018 on Jan. 28, 2019.
Original Filing: 301019101.xml
Lobbying Issues
HR 6043: Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States Act (STATES)
Indicates that proceeds from state-compliant transactions shall not be deemed the proceeds of unlawful transactions thus addressing many of the financial obstacles created by federal prohibition.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Type of Issue
Banking/Investments/Securities
Lobbying Issues
Not applicable for this reporting period.
Type of Issue
Taxation/Internal Revenue Code/Disease Research/Clinical Labs/Appropriations
Lobbying Issues
HR 6043: Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States Act (STATES)
Surgically removes cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act for those states that have
cannabis programs.
Amends definition of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act to no longer include
industrial hemp.
Restricts employment to workers over 18; cant distribute or sell to anyone under 21 except for
medical purposes.
Prohibits distribution of marijuana at transportation facilities such as rest areas and truck stops.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Type of Issue
Consumer Issues/Safety/Protection
4th Quarter, 2018
In Q4, The Liaison Group, LLC lobbied for California Cannabis Industry Association , earning $12,000. The report was filed on Jan. 22, 2019.
Original Filing: 301013923.xml
Lobbying Issues
HR 6043: Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States Act (STATES)
Indicates that proceeds from state-compliant transactions shall not be deemed the proceeds of unlawful transactions thus addressing many of the financial obstacles created by federal prohibition.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Type of Issue
Banking/Investments/Securities
Lobbying Issues
Not applicable for this reporting period.
Type of Issue
Taxation/Internal Revenue Code/Disease Research/Clinical Labs/Appropriations
Lobbying Issues
HR 6043: Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States Act (STATES)
Surgically removes cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act for those states that have
cannabis programs.
Amends definition of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act to no longer include
industrial hemp.
Restricts employment to workers over 18; cant distribute or sell to anyone under 21 except for
medical purposes.
Prohibits distribution of marijuana at transportation facilities such as rest areas and truck stops.
Agencies Lobbied
U.S. Senate
Type of Issue
Consumer Issues/Safety/Protection
4th Quarter, 2018
The Liaison Group, LLC filed a lobbying registration on Nov. 14, 2018 to represent California Cannabis Industry Association, effective Oct. 17, 2018.
Original Filing: 301000452.xml
Issue(s) they said they’d lobby about: Building support for, and securing enactment of, bipartisan legislation allowing states to set and enforce their own laws governing cannabis use; Removing federal restrictions that prohibit medical research involving cannabis to encourage the development of solutions that can improve the lives of patients and combat the opiod epidemic in the United States; Allowing companies operating legally in the cannabis industry to utilize traditional institutions for financial transactions ; and Correcting flaws in the US tax code that serve as barriers to legal commerce in the cannabis space and slow the development of solutions that can improve Americans' lives. .
Source: Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives and Secretary of the Senate
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